Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin maintained that “the U.S. remains committed to preventing Iran from gaining a nuclear weapon. And we remain committed to a diplomatic outcome of the nuclear issue. But if Iran isn’t willing to engage seriously, then we will look at all the options necessary to keep the U.S. secure”. He added: “Iran’s actions in recent months have not been encouraging – especially because of the expansion of their nuclear program… But if Iran comes back with constructive positions, we still think we can quickly resolve our lingering differences to make a mutual return to the JCPOA possible”. On the regional front, Austin contended that “Iran stokes tensions in this region and beyond”, while noting: “Iran’s neighbours have tried to talk and improve relations. We fully support those efforts… whatever Iran decides, we will continue to work closely with our partners”.